How can you say thank you?

Chicago Parent staff

It was my birthday last month and it was the kind of number
that, if you doubled it, would make a pretty admirable milestone by
most people's standards. Those "special days" can get you
thinking. I walked into the office here at Chicago Parent that
morning to find my desk decorated in birthday attire along with
wonderful gifts, one was among the most thoughtful gifts of
membership I ever received. My family will end up using the
gift more than me, and that works great for me. It was kind
and gracious, the kind of thing that I did not buy for myself this
year for several reasons. Most of all, the gift was humbling.
It reminds me that friends and their deeds are a true gifts from
God.

In my department, you see, I am the only guy. I get to hear all
the girl talk, the family stuff, the kids stuff, the tough parent
stuff that most guys, dads, just ignore. Kinda hard to ignore
here. And after a few years here now, I am starting to
understand what my wife used to want to share with me about her
fellow teachers and other workmates. I didn't really know how
to respond to her back then, mostly I smiled and
nodded. Perhaps this is yet another gift.

I work with women (and yes, there are men in other departments)
that I admire and respect. My funny bone has found a special
name for each of these great ladies. Let me share a glimpse of
what and who I get to experience each workday:

Nicollette Lord is the mom of three who knows
just about everyone and everything that is going on. She is always
connected and concerned about the pulse of her
people. Goodness Gracious comes from a large,
loving family. She is young, vibrant, sharp, passionate and
motherhood is in her genes. Winnie
Right is a mom of one intelligent young man and
resourcefully finds ways to make things work.

Circle Belle Renniks has an occasional crazy
theatrical side, but is a true doll and caring mom. Ms.
Kimness is a true rollercoaster riot and mother of two
adorable and loved children. Life at CP is never dull when she
is in her groove. Breezy Kirsack keeps the back
end of our office running and covers our backside. Her mere
presence reminds us what life was like before parenthood.
Enga Dawnstrom knows the downtown happenings while
guiding her daughter through her college years. Times change
and Enga adapts with true grace. Our leader, Fearless
Fancy, can stir a pot and cook that special feast while
her compassionate spirit surfaces in troubled times. Raising
two teenagers is a rewarding challenge and Fancy does it
fearlessly.

The spirit of the women of CP Sales is one of dedication and
truth that aspires to greatness with compassion. Don't get me
wrong, I like sports and hanging out with the guys, but I have come
to a better understanding of this still foreign world. Working
moms. Co-workers. Friends. You rock! How can I ever
say thank you?